They
are known and loved throughout the world and for millions
of people, they bring back the cosy and colourful days
of childhood - learning to read, discovering the magic
of books, and growing up.
2000 was a very special year for Ladybird children's books
as it marked 60 years since they published their first
book for series
401, Bunnikin's Picnic
Party (1940).
They have since become known for their unique 56 page
'pocket sized' mini-hardbacks which remained at a constant
price of 2'6 Net for over 25 years.
Their
books have been published in over 60 languages with sales
round the world topping 30 million each year. In the 1980s
market research showed that Ladybird were the most recognisable
brand in children's books.
Their best sellers include the Well Loved Tales, the Key
Words Reading Sheme, Puddle Lane, Adventures from History,
and the Achievements series.
We have
recently been speaking to Sylvia Creche
and Roger Twinn, the author and
illustrator team who brought us the lovable, furry,
little rodent, Mervyn Mouse.
The first books under the imprint 'The Ladybird series' were 'Tiny Tots Travels' and 'Stories from Hans Andersen' (1914) and 'Little Stories for Little People' and 'ABC Picture Book' (1916).
